JP7767070B2 - Nozzle head, cleaning system, method for cleaning and glass element - Patents.com - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a nozzle head and a cleaning system comprising such a nozzle head. The present invention also relates to a method for cleaning glass elements, in particular using the nozzle head or cleaning system according to the present invention. The present invention further relates to glass elements and bundles.

In conventional techniques, glass elements such as glass tubes can become contaminated. In particular, particles can accumulate on the surfaces of the glass elements, especially on the inner surfaces.

Particles can result, for example, from the manufacturing process of each glass element. In the case of glass tubing, a particularly significant source of particles is the process of tailoring the glass tubing from a glass tubing strand, where the glass tubing can be cut to length by sawing or other cutting. This results in a significant amount of particles that accumulate primarily in the end sections of the glass tubing. After tailoring, the glass tubing, and particularly the end sections of the glass tubing, are heated again to seal and shape the cut edges.

However, this can lead to a situation where loose particles from the end region become firmly bonded to the surface of the glass tube. Of course, particles from other sources, such as dust, loose material, or dirt in the environment, can also adhere to the glass element during heating. Such particles often cannot be removed by the subsequent water rinsing process and remain present in the final glass element.

However, depending on the purpose of each glass element, particles can be highly undesirable. For example, if the glass element is intended to be used as a pharmaceutical container for holding a pharmaceutical composition, high-quality glass elements, i.e., glass elements with little or no particles, are particularly important. In particular, particles adhering to the inner surface of a glass element, such as the surface facing the lumen of a glass tube, can be extremely serious. If the particle comes into contact with the pharmaceutical composition, substances from the particle may leak into the pharmaceutical composition, or the particle itself may leave the surface of the glass tube and enter the composition, potentially contaminating the pharmaceutical composition.

So, for example, in a conventional glass tubing manufacturing process, after the glass tubing is cut to length and before it is heated, pressurized air is used to remove particles from the inside of the glass tubing. This is achieved by a nozzle head spraying a stream of air from one end of the glass tubing, blowing the particles out the other end and out of the glass tubing. While this process is easy to implement from a technical standpoint, it has drawbacks.

In this respect, only a portion of the air is actually injected into the glass tube, while the remaining air is blown through the glass tube, potentially creating dust and other particles in the environment. This can lead to new sources of contamination. Furthermore, particles are blown from one end section of the glass tube to the other, each passing through the middle section. Therefore, there is a risk that this middle section will later become more contaminated than it was originally. This is particularly true since there are typically more particles in the end sections than in the middle section. It has also been pointed out that high pressure can cause loud noise. Furthermore, because laminar flow is formed within the glass tube, the flow velocity on the inner surface of the glass tube decreases over distance. Therefore, the further a particle is from the end section, the weaker the interaction force between the injected air flow and the particle. Therefore, glass tubes beyond a certain length may not be adequately cleaned along their entire length.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art by providing a means by which contamination of glass elements by particles can be reduced easily and cost-effectively. It is also an object of the present invention to provide high-quality glass elements and bundles containing such glass elements.

The object of the present invention is to provide a nozzle head for cleaning the interior of a glass element with a fluid, comprising:
at least one flushing opening for discharging at least a portion of the fluid and facing in a first direction;
at least one pressure balancing opening for discharging at least a portion of the fluid and facing in the second direction;
two half spaces, i.e., a first half space and a second half space, separated by a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the nozzle head;
a first direction vector of the first direction points towards the first half-space and/or away from the second half-space;
This is solved by the invention according to a first aspect which proposes a nozzle head, the second direction vector of which points towards the second half space and/or away from the first half space.

The present invention is therefore based on the surprising finding that particles can be efficiently removed from a glass element if the nozzle head is inserted into the glass element and the particles can be removed by blowing them back to the proximal end rather than through the middle section of the glass element to the distal end. This is achieved by the present invention in that the cleaning opening is oriented in a first direction, so that the fluid is also ejected into or towards the first half-space, i.e., backward.

Furthermore, the inventors have recognized that inserting the nozzle head into the glass element can significantly increase the interaction between the fluid and the particles. Furthermore, particles are not blown across the mid-section of the glass element, thus enabling a more efficient cleaning process.

By providing a pressure balancing opening and providing pressure equalization, it is possible to reliably ensure that while particles are being blown out of the glass element, other particles that are in the position past the nozzle head are not sucked into the fluid flow.

It is possible to clean the two half-spaces of a glass element independently from both ends. Pressure equalization prevents particles from being sucked into the other half-space. Similarly, when cleaning both ends of a glass element in parallel with two nozzle heads, the pressure balancing opening prevents negative pressure from being generated within the glass element, which would otherwise suck in particles.

Since the nozzle head can be inserted into the glass element, the fluid flow is only effective within the glass element. Furthermore, all fluid flows emitted from the nozzle head, whether from the cleaning opening or the pressure balancing opening, are directed toward the outside of the glass element. Therefore, particles from the outside cannot enter the glass element. Also, because the fluid flow is directed backward, the fluid emitted from the pressure balancing opening is prevented from drawing in air from outside the glass element.

The approach of the present invention makes it possible to clean glass elements, such as glass tubes, of almost any length. Furthermore, it is sufficient and appropriate to insert the nozzle head to the center of the glass element or even less, for example, only into the area that needs to be cleaned. Therefore, the length of the arm that holds the nozzle head can be designed to be short. This prevents vibration of the arm, and therefore the nozzle head. Therefore, damage to the glass element due to a collision with the nozzle head, can be prevented.

It is recognized that, in the present invention, the term opening, particularly in relation to cleaning openings or pressure balancing openings, should preferably be understood as a three-dimensional space that can be obtained, for example, by drilling.

It is recognized that, in the present invention, the facing direction of a cleaning opening or a pressure opening is preferably understood to be the direction facing outside the volume enclosed by the outer shape of the nozzle head and normal to at least one cross section of each opening. Alternatively, the facing direction of a cleaning opening or a pressure balancing opening can also be understood to be the direction in which each opening substantially emits fluid.

The central axis of the nozzle head is, for example, the axis of rotation of the nozzle head.

It has been found that when the nozzle head is used to clean glass elements such as tubular elements, negative pressure does not occur at the ends of each glass element, particularly at the ends of each tubular element. If the nozzle in the glass tube is designed to spray perpendicularly to the wall, overpressure would occur if there was only one nozzle at each end. Otherwise, when the cleaning nozzle is directed toward one end of the glass element, the generated air flow carries air from the other side, creating negative pressure on the second side. Therefore, particles in the environment are sucked into the glass element. The proposed nozzle head prevents this air entrainment. To achieve this, a small opening, such as a slit, in the nozzle toward the second end of the pipe is sufficient. Therefore, the proposed nozzle head can remove particles from the inside of glass elements such as tubular elements without causing further contamination.

In one embodiment, preferably the nozzle head comprises:
at least one supply opening for supplying fluid to the nozzle head and facing in a third direction;
Preferably, (i) the third direction vector of the third direction points towards the first half-space and/or away from the second half-space, (ii) the third direction vector is anti-parallel to the second direction, and/or (iii) the third direction vector is parallel to the central axis of the nozzle head.

The supply opening allows for easy and secure attachment of a fluid supply line to the nozzle head.

The orientation of each supply opening allows for a nozzle head that is safe to handle, as the different openings are appropriately distributed throughout the nozzle head.

It is recognized that, in the present invention, the term "opening" in relation to the supply opening should preferably be understood as a three-dimensional space that can be obtained, for example, by perforation.

It is recognized that, in the present invention, the direction in which the supply opening faces is preferably understood to be a direction facing outside the volume enclosed by the outer shape of the nozzle head and normal to at least one cross section of the supply opening.

In one embodiment, in particular when the nozzle head is supplied with fluid through the supply openings at a pressure of 1 to 10 bar absolute, preferably 2 to 6 bar absolute, most preferably 3 bar absolute, the nozzle head is configured such that a first ratio (mass/mass) of the amount of fluid emitted by the pressure balancing openings to the amount of fluid emitted by the cleaning openings is equal to or greater than 0.2, preferably equal to or greater than 0.5, preferably equal to or greater than 0.9, preferably equal to or greater than 1, most preferably equal to or greater than 1.5, and/or is equal to or less than 20, preferably equal to or less than 10, more preferably equal to or less than 5, more preferably equal to or less than 1, more preferably equal to or less than 0.9, more preferably equal to or less than 0.5,
and/or the second direction vector is parallel to the central axis and the first direction vector is neither parallel nor anti-parallel to the central axis, and/or the angle between a line defined by the first direction vector and a plane perpendicular to the central axis is between 10° and 89°, preferably between 20° and 80°, more preferably between 30° and 80°, and most preferably between 40° and 80°.

A suitable first ratio allows pressure conditions to be achieved that result in particularly good cleaning results. It has been found that the proposed first ratio value makes it possible to avoid negative pressure, especially at both ends of glass elements, such as tubular elements. The ratio can preferably have a value greater than or less than 1.

In one embodiment, the nozzle head is configured so that an overpressure exists in both half spaces within the tubular element relative to the environment outside the tubular element.

The preferred first ratio allows for a particularly efficient operating mode of the nozzle head and good cleaning results.

In a preferred embodiment, the first ratio is 1 or greater, preferably 1 to 5, more preferably 1 to 2, more preferably 1.0 to 1.5, more preferably 1.00 to 1.3. A ratio of 1 or greater, preferably 1.00 or greater, can improve the cleanability of both end sections of the glass element.

This configuration is particularly useful, for example, when the tubular element is subjected to a cleaning process. If a portion of both half-spaces within the tubular element has pressure relative to the environment within the tubular element, the cleaning process can be carried out easily and efficiently. Furthermore, if the first ratio is 1 or greater, it is possible to prevent negative pressure from building up within the glass element, which would otherwise cause particles to be sucked in.

In a preferred embodiment, the first ratio is less than 1. More preferably, the first ratio is 0.1 to 0.99, preferably 0.2 to 0.9, more preferably 0.2 to 0.8.

When the orientations of the cleaning openings and pressure balancing openings are appropriately selected, the fluid flow can effectively interact with particles. For example, it has proven advantageous for the pressure balancing openings to emit a fluid flow parallel to the central axis, and for the cleaning openings to emit a fluid flow in the opposite direction at a certain angle to the central axis.

In one embodiment, for each cleaning opening, the angle between each straight line defined by each first direction vector and a plane perpendicular to the central axis satisfies the described condition.

In one embodiment, the nozzle head preferably has a plurality of cleaning openings, preferably 2 to 50 cleaning openings, more preferably 2 to 30 cleaning openings, more preferably 2 to 12 cleaning openings, more preferably 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 or 12 cleaning openings, each of which faces in a first direction having a respective first direction vector.

Multiple cleaning openings allow fluid to be distributed evenly around the nozzle head, resulting in more accurate and efficient cleaning of glass elements.

Preferably, at least some of the cleaning openings are arranged along at least one section of at least one circle extending around the outer periphery of the nozzle head, in particular the circle being concentric with the central axis of the nozzle head.

Preferably, the nozzle head has six cleaning openings.

It is recognized that all cleaning openings may, and typically will, face in different first directions. Thus, there may be several first directions, the number of first directions being equal to the number of cleaning openings. However, if two or more of the plurality of cleaning openings face in a common first direction, the number of different first directions may be less than the number of cleaning openings.

In one embodiment, preferably the nozzle head comprises one single feed opening and/or comprises a plurality of feed openings, preferably 2 to 10, more preferably 2 to 3, most preferably 2 feed openings;
the nozzle head comprises one single pressure balancing opening and/or a plurality of pressure balancing openings, preferably 2 to 10, more preferably 2 to 3, most preferably 2 pressure balancing openings;
and/or the nozzle head has one single supply opening and one single pressure balancing opening, the only supply opening being positioned opposite the only pressure balancing opening along the central axis.

A single pressure balancing opening provides a robust and easy-to-use nozzle head.

The single dispensing opening provides a robust and easy-to-use nozzle head.

A particularly efficient nozzle head can be provided if it has one single pressure balancing opening and one single supply opening. If the openings are arranged opposite each other along the central axis, the nozzle head has improved symmetry, which can reduce instability and possible vibration during use.

In one embodiment, preferably, at least some or all of the one or more cleaning openings are arranged in a plane, preferably perpendicular to a line defined by the third direction vector, and/or are arranged so as to be intersected by a plane, preferably perpendicular to a line defined by the third direction vector.

A particularly symmetrical nozzle design is obtained when all or at least some of the cleaning openings are at least partially positioned and/or oriented in a plane. This allows the nozzle head to produce a fluid output with high symmetry and thus high cleaning capacity.

In one embodiment, preferably at least one of the cleaning openings, and preferably all of the cleaning openings, is slit-shaped, preferably a 360° slit-shaped, or round.

Round-shaped flushing openings are easy to manufacture and produce a favorable fluid flow. Slit-shaped flushing openings are particularly suitable for achieving a uniform fluid flow in large or curved output sections.

In one embodiment, preferably at least one of the pressure balancing openings, at least one of the cleaning openings and/or at least one of the supply openings, preferably all of each opening, are arranged concentrically with respect to the central axis.

For example, the cleaning opening is a 360° slit and is arranged concentrically about the central axis, making it particularly easy to install.

When the supply opening and/or pressure balancing opening are concentrically arranged, handling of the nozzle head becomes more reliable and convenient.

In one embodiment, preferably, a second ratio (mm ² /mm ² ) of the cross-sectional area of the pressure balancing opening to the cross-sectional area of the cleaning opening is 0.2 or more, preferably 0.5 or more, more preferably 0.9 or more, more preferably 1.0 or more, more preferably 1.50 or more;
and/or the second ratio is 20 or less, preferably 10 or less, more preferably 5 or less, more preferably 1 or less, more preferably 0.9 or less, even more preferably 0.5 or less.

The preferred second ratio allows for a particularly efficient operating mode of the nozzle head and good cleaning results.

In one embodiment, the nozzle head preferably comprises carbon fiber, metal, metal alloy, or polymer, and more preferably, the nozzle head comprises aluminum, steel, brass, polytetrafluoroethylene, or polyoxymethylene.

Furthermore, if a plastic material is selected for the nozzle head, an extremely robust nozzle head can be obtained. Furthermore, the risk of the nozzle head damaging the glass element during operation can be further reduced.

For example, the nozzle head can be manufactured by injection molding.

In one embodiment, the maximum outer diameter of the nozzle head is preferably 50 mm or less, preferably 1 mm to 50 mm, more preferably 2 mm to 25 mm, and most preferably 3 mm to 18 mm.

A preferred outer diameter can improve the cleanability of the glass elements.

In one embodiment, the nozzle head preferably comprises at least one supply channel or supply channel network for supplying fluid from the supply opening to the pressure balancing opening and/or the cleaning opening, and preferably the supply channel comprises a cylindrical portion, in particular a cylindrical portion having a diameter of 1.5 mm or more and/or 25.0 mm or less.

The supply channel can distribute the fluid within the nozzle head properly and efficiently. Furthermore, a supply channel of appropriate diameter can be adapted to operating conditions such as the maximum allowable pressure on the nozzle head, thus increasing safety.

In one embodiment, preferably all pressure balancing openings and cleaning openings are fluidly connected to one another via a supply channel or supply channel network.

The nozzle head can be manufactured particularly easily and inexpensively if the openings are in fluid communication with each other via supply channels. Essentially, the openings can simply be drilled into the nozzle head until they are connected to a supply channel or network of supply channels already provided in the nozzle head.

In one embodiment, preferably the nozzle head further comprises at least one adjusting element for adjusting a third ratio, the third ratio being a ratio (mass/mass) of an amount of fluid emitted from one or more, preferably all, cleaning openings to an amount of fluid emitted from one or more, preferably all, pressure balancing openings;
Preferably,
(i) the third ratio is adjusted by an adjustment element so as to in particular increase or decrease the cross section of at least one of each of the cleaning openings and/or the pressure balancing openings;
(ii) the adjustment element comprises at least one metering ring and/or at least a part, in particular an end section, of the fluid supply line;
(iii) the adjustment element is disposed at least partially within the nozzle head;
(iv) the adjustment element is movable within the nozzle head, in particular along an adjustment direction parallel to the central axis;
(v) the third ratio is adjusted or adjustable by moving an adjustment element, in particular along an adjustment direction;
(vi) the third ratio is measured at a fluid pressure of 1 to 10 bar absolute, preferably 2 to 6 bar absolute, and most preferably 3 bar absolute;
and/or (vii) the nozzle head further comprises a fixing element, such as a lock nut, for fixing the adjustment element in a particular position, in particular for preventing movement along the adjustment direction.

The adjustment element allows the nozzle head to be used under different conditions. Different fluid volumes can be easily selected depending on the specific situation. It is also possible to provide an adjustment element easily.

If the adjustment element comprises a metering ring, the third ratio can be selected very accurately. If the adjustment element comprises part of the fluid supply line, a very compact setup is obtained.

If the adjustment element is located inside the nozzle head, a compact setup can be obtained. Furthermore, the adjustment element is provided safely.

If the adjustment element is movable, it is possible to adjust the third ratio particularly easily and precisely.

The fixing element can be easily provided while the overall nozzle head remains compact in design.

In one embodiment, preferably the nozzle head comprises a first threaded portion, preferably the first threaded portion being at least partially defined by at least one section of the dispensing opening;
Preferably, the adjustment element comprises a second threaded portion, which preferably cooperates with the first threaded portion of the supply opening, in particular by cooperation, the adjustment element can be moved along the adjustment direction.

The threaded portion allows other means to be fixedly attached to the nozzle head. If a threaded portion is provided on the supply opening, each supply line can be safely positioned.

If the adjustment element has threaded portions, movement of the adjustment element within the nozzle head can be achieved by cooperation of the threaded portions. If the first threaded portion is defined by at least one section of the delivery opening, the adjustment element can be at least partially movable within the delivery opening.

In one embodiment, the nozzle head is preferably configured so that the cleaning opening and/or the pressure balancing opening rotate about a central axis when fluid is emitted from the cleaning opening and/or the pressure balancing opening, and preferably the rotation is driven by the fluid jet emitted from the cleaning opening and/or the pressure balancing opening.

When the nozzle head rotates, the cleaning results achieved with the nozzle head are of particularly high quality.

In one embodiment, preferably the cleaning openings and/or the pressure balancing openings are configured such that a line defined by the first direction vector and/or the second direction vector, preferably all lines, do not intersect with a line defined by the third direction vector;
and/or the cleaning openings and/or the pressure balancing openings are configured such that the fluid is discharged by each opening in a spiral fashion.

In one embodiment, the nozzle head is preferably configured such that when inserted into a glass element, in particular a tubular glass element, for example, a tubular glass element having an inner diameter of 0.5 cm to 10 cm, preferably an inner diameter of 2 cm, a cylindrical portion of 2 cm to 200 cm, and/or a length of 10 cm to 200 cm, preferably a length of 100 cm, and having a first end section and a second end section, at least a portion of the fluid is released from the cleaning opening and at least a portion of the fluid is released from the pressure balancing opening, an excess pressure relative to the ambient pressure is present in the first end section and the second end section.

The subject matter is a cleaning system for cleaning the interior of a glass element with a fluid, comprising:
a nozzle head according to the first aspect of the invention or any embodiment described herein;
The above-mentioned problem is solved by the present invention in a second aspect, which proposes a cleaning system comprising a fluid supply line connected to the supply opening of the nozzle head.

The surprising discovery was that the nozzle head can be used in combination with a fluid supply line connected to the nozzle head, thereby allowing each cleaning system to similarly obtain all of the benefits described above with respect to the nozzle head.

In one embodiment, preferably
(i) the nozzle head is disposed at one end of the fluid supply line;
(ii) the nozzle head is designed integrally with the fluid supply line;
(iii) the adjustment element is provided by a fluid supply line;
(iv) the adjusting element is designed integrally with the fluid supply line;
(v) the liquid supply line has a tubular shape, preferably comprising a tube;
and/or (vi) the length of the fluid supply line, or the length of the nozzle head and fluid supply line, is from 5 cm to 100 cm, preferably from 10 cm to 75 cm, more preferably from 20 cm to 50 cm.

The integrated design of the nozzle head and fluid supply line provides a particularly robust cleaning system and reduces the number of parts.

The integrated design of the adjustment element and fluid supply line provides a particularly robust cleaning system and reduces the number of parts.

Tubular shapes are particularly preferred for hollow cylindrical glass elements.

In one embodiment, preferably
(i) the cleaning system is configured such that the nozzle head and/or the fluid supply line can move back and forth, in particular along a central axis of the nozzle head and/or parallel or anti-parallel to the second and/or third direction;
(ii) the cleaning system is configured such that when fluid is released from the nozzle head, the nozzle head and preferably at least a portion of the fluid supply line are inside the glass element;
(iii) the cleaning system is configured to remove particles from the glass element by ejecting fluid from the nozzle head while the nozzle head is positioned within the glass element;
and/or (iv) the cleaning system is configured such that while the nozzle head is not ejecting fluid, the nozzle head and/or the fluid supply line moves along a direction parallel to the second direction and/or the third direction, preferably inside the glass element, and while the nozzle head is ejecting fluid, the nozzle head and/or the fluid supply line moves along a direction parallel to the second direction and/or the third direction, preferably outside the glass element, to remove particles from the glass element.

Moving the nozzle head and/or fluid supply line allows the nozzle head to be easily and efficiently moved into a glass element, such as a glass tube.

When fluid is released from the nozzle head, if the nozzle head and possibly the fluid supply line are inside the glass element, it is ensured that particles adhering to the end section are not blown further into the glass element. Instead, the particles are blown out of the glass element via the nearby end section.

Therefore, when fluid is emitted by the nozzle head while it is positioned inside the glass element, particles can be intentionally blown directly toward the proximal end of the glass element. Furthermore, direct interaction between the fluid emitted from the cleaning opening and the particles is increased, thereby improving the quality of the cleaning process.

If the nozzle head is moved into the glass element before releasing fluid from the nozzle head, and then moved back to the outside of the glass element while releasing fluid from the nozzle head, particles are efficiently removed from the glass element as they move from the inside to the outside.

In addition, the proximity of the cleaning openings to the inner surface of the glass element results in a constant flow velocity that is much higher than laminar flow. It is also worth noting that the approach of the present invention allows for a significant reduction in the amount of fluid due to the directional interaction of the fluid with the particles. This also reduces noise emissions.

In one embodiment, preferably
(i) the cleaning system further comprises at least one fixation unit, preferably a conveyor belt or roll, for holding the glass elements in a fixed position during cleaning;
(ii) the cleaning system further comprises at least one fluid supply means, preferably a tank, a recirculation facility or a fluid filter system, for supplying a fluid to the nozzle head via a fluid supply line, the fluid supply means supplying a fluid, preferably a gas, in particular a noble gas such as helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar), nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide or air, a liquid, water vapor or a mixture thereof;
and/or (iii) the amount of water in the fluid supplied to the nozzle head is 10% by mass or less, preferably 1% by mass or less, more preferably 0.1% by mass or less, more preferably 0.01% by mass or less.

The fixed unit allows for a reliable cleaning process.

For example, a roll can be used to apply pressure to the glass elements, for example from above. This can prevent glass elements such as pipes from being blown away during the cleaning process.

The fluid supply means can ensure a reliable supply of fluid to the cleaning system.

Reducing moisture allows the cleaning process to run more efficiently.

In one embodiment, the cleaning system is preferably configured to rotate the glass element and/or the nozzle head while fluid is being ejected from the nozzle head.

Relative rotation allows for a particularly efficient cleaning process, as the area of direct interaction between the fluid and the surface of the glass element is increased.

In one embodiment, the cleaning system preferably comprises a vibration unit configured to vibrate the glass elements at least occasionally during the cleaning process, in particular at a frequency of 100 to 10,000 Hz, preferably 200 to 5,000 Hz, more preferably 250 to 4,000 Hz, and/or an amplitude of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1 mm, more preferably 0.7 mm to 0.9 mm.

The vibration unit allows for a particularly efficient cleaning process by vibrating the glass elements, which in combination with the fluid can support the movement of particles.

Vibrating means, for example, applying pulsating vibrations. This provides an effective cleaning method.

In one embodiment, preferably
(i) the cleaning system is configured to discharge at least one fluid stream through one of the cleaning opening and the pressure balancing opening, and preferably configured to discharge all fluid streams through all of the cleaning openings and the pressure balancing openings at a flow rate of 5 to 100 ^m3 per hour;
(ii) the ratio of the maximum outer diameter of the nozzle head to the inner diameter of the glass element is 0.5 to 0.9;
(iii) the ratio of the outer diameter of the fluid supply line, particularly the threaded portion, to the inner diameter of the glass element is 0.2 to 0.9;
and/or (iv) the irrigation system is configured to release fluid continuously and/or in a pulsating manner from one or more, preferably all, of the irrigation and pressure balancing openings.

A favorable flow rate allows for an efficient cleaning process.

When the difference between the outer diameter of the nozzle head and the inner diameter of the glass element is appropriately selected, the fluid can interact favorably with particles attached to the glass element, such as a glass tube.

Pulsating fluid supply improves the interaction of the fluid flow with the glass elements. Continuous fluid supply also facilitates the implementation of a cleaning system.

In one embodiment, the cleaning system preferably comprises a glass element, in particular a tubular glass element, for example, a tubular glass element having an inner diameter of 0.5 cm to 10 cm, preferably an inner diameter of 2 cm, a cylindrical portion of 2 cm to 200 cm, and/or a length of 10 cm to 200 cm, preferably 100 cm, and comprising a first end section and a second end section, and the nozzle head is configured such that when at least a portion of the fluid is released from the cleaning opening and when at least a portion of the fluid is released from the pressure balancing opening, an excess pressure relative to the ambient pressure exists in the first end section and the second end section.

The subject matter is a method for cleaning glass elements, preferably with a nozzle head according to the first aspect of the invention or any embodiment described herein, or a cleaning system according to the second aspect of the invention or any embodiment described herein, comprising:
- providing a glass element;
- inserting the nozzle head into the interior of the glass element along a specific direction, preferably parallel to the second and/or third direction, while the nozzle head is not emitting any fluid;
The problem is solved by the invention according to a third aspect, which proposes a method comprising a step of ejecting fluid from the nozzle head, preferably while moving the nozzle head, in particular within the glass element, along a direction opposite to the specific direction.

The present invention is therefore based on the finding that particles are efficiently removed from a glass element when they are blown from the interior to the exterior. This can be achieved in an efficient manner by inserting a nozzle head into the interior of the glass element while the nozzle head is not ejecting fluid, and then moving the nozzle head inside the glass element while ejecting fluid from the nozzle head.

In one embodiment, the fluid is preferably ejected from the nozzle head while moving the nozzle head in a third direction within the glass element until the nozzle head separates from the glass element.

In one embodiment, the inserting and expelling steps are preferably carried out in 1 minute or less, preferably 30 seconds or less, more preferably 15 seconds or less, more preferably 10 seconds or less, more preferably 5 seconds or less.

The subject matter is a glass element having a first end, a second end, and a hollow portion, the hollow portion comprising:
i) a first end section including a first end of the glass element;
ii) a mid-section; and
iii) a second end section comprising a second end of the glass element;
each section having an inner surface and an outer surface, all sections being of equal length;
the ratio of the number of particles on the inner surface of the first end section and/or the second end section to the number of particles on the inner surface of the middle section is 20 or less;
This is solved by the invention according to a fourth aspect, which proposes a glass element.

The present invention is therefore based on the surprising finding that glass elements are particularly suitable for holding sensitive substances, such as pharmaceutical compositions, when the surface magnification is limited. It has been found that a low surface magnification can prevent or at least reduce the diffusion of substances contained in the glass material into the composition held in the glass element.

Surprisingly, by controlling the particle count ratio, it is possible to produce high-quality glass elements that are particularly suitable for holding pharmaceutical compositions. The approach of the present invention makes it extremely easy to produce high-quality individual glass elements.

Identification of related particles can be performed according to the following method:

In a darkroom, the glass element to be inspected is illuminated, for example, at 5000 lx. Particles are identified by diffraction, reflection, and absorption of light. A handheld microscope, such as the PEAK Wide Stand Microscope, can be used to identify particles. Optically identified particles are then visibly marked. The marked glass element is then observed along the surface normal using an optical microscope, such as the Zeiss Axio Imager M2m, with an LD EC Epiplan 50x/0.55 HD DIC lens and a PI 10x/2 eyepiece, to characterize the particles and measure their length. Here, particle size is related to the maximum visible extension (Féret diameter) at the observation surface. This type of measurement consciously recognizes that the maximum longitudinal extension of a three-dimensional particle also extends along the optical axis of the microscope, i.e., along the normal. In this case, the particle size obtained is smaller than the actual value of the maximum longitudinal extension of a three-dimensional particle, e.g., a glass particle. It is recognized that this method allows particles having a size of at least 50 μm or greater, i.e., particles having a maximum extension visible at the observation surface, to be characterized in terms of their size and type, e.g., glass, metal, dust, salt, etc. Optionally, particles having a size less than 50 μm may not be considered particles according to the invention described herein in accordance with this method.

Unless otherwise stated, in the context of this specification, a glass element may comprise a first end, a second end, and/or a hollow portion, preferably a cylindrical hollow portion, which preferably comprises a first end section comprising the first end of the glass element, an intermediate section, and/or a second end section comprising the second end of the glass element. Each section may have an inner and/or outer surface. Each of all sections may be of equal length.

In one embodiment, preferably, the ratio of the number of particles on the inner surface of the first end section and/or the second end section to the number of particles on the inner surface of the intermediate section is 15 or less, more preferably 10 or less, more preferably 8 or less, more preferably 6 or less, more preferably 4 or less, most preferably 2 or less, and/or 1.0 or greater.

The preferred ratio of each allows for particularly high quality glass elements to be obtained.

In one embodiment, preferably the number of particles on the inner surface of the first end section and/or the second end section is 0 or more, preferably 50 or more, more preferably 100 or more, and/or 1000 or less, preferably 900 or less, more preferably 800 or less, more preferably 700 or less, more preferably 600 or less, more preferably 500 or less, more preferably 400 or less, more preferably 300 or less, more preferably 200 or less.

The inventors have found that limiting the number of particles improves the quality and safety of the glass element, resulting in a smooth surface.

In one embodiment, the number of particles on the inner surface of the intermediate section is preferably 0 or more, preferably 50 or more, more preferably 100 or more, and/or 1000 or less, preferably 900 or less, more preferably 800 or less, more preferably 700 or less, more preferably 600 or less, more preferably 500 or less, more preferably 400 or less, more preferably 300 or less, more preferably 200 or less.

The inventors have found that limiting the number of particles improves the quality and safety of the glass element, resulting in a smooth surface.

In one embodiment, preferably the number of particles on the inner surface of the ^first end section and/or the second end section is on average 10 or less, preferably 9 or less, more preferably 8 or less, more preferably 7 or less, more preferably 6 or less, more preferably 5 or less, more preferably 4 or less, more preferably 3 or less, more preferably 2 or less, more preferably 1 or less per cm2 and/or the number of particles on the outer surface of the first end section and/or the ^second end section is 10 or less, preferably 9 or less, more preferably 8 or less, more preferably 7 or less, more preferably 6 or less, more preferably 5 or less, more preferably 4 or less, more preferably 3 or less, more preferably 2 or less, more preferably 1 or less per mm2.

The inventors have found that limiting the particle density improves the quality and safety of the glass element, thereby achieving a smooth surface.

In one embodiment, preferably
(i) particle size, preferably the maximum extension length of the particle, is 50 μm or more, preferably 60 μm or more, more preferably 70 μm or more, more preferably 80 μm or more, more preferably 90 μm or more, more preferably 100 μm or more, more preferably 110 μm or more, more preferably 120 μm or more, more preferably 130 μm or more, more preferably 140 μm or more, more preferably 150 μm or more;
and/or (ii) particle size, preferably the maximum extended length of the particles, is 1000 μm or less, preferably 900 μm or less, more preferably 800 μm or less, more preferably 700 μm or less, more preferably 600 μm or less, more preferably 500 μm or less, more preferably 400 μm or less, more preferably 300 μm or less, more preferably 200 μm or less, more preferably 150 μm or less.

The surprising finding has been that only particles of each extension length are relevant for assessing the quality of glass elements. It is therefore sufficient to deal specifically with these particles, while other particles are not affected. This allows reducing the costs of providing high-quality glass elements.

Preferably, those skilled in the art will understand that even if particles outside the stated ranges are present on the inner and/or outer surfaces, the particles outside the stated ranges will not be taken into account in the ratio. For example, if the particle size is 50 μm or greater, there may be no or a significant number of particles 2 μm in size on the inner and/or outer surfaces, but these will not be relevant to the ratio.

In one embodiment, the glass element preferably does not contain any particles on the inner surface of the first end section and/or the second end section having a particle size, preferably a maximum extension length, of 1000 μm or more, preferably 900 μm or more, more preferably 800 μm or more, more preferably 700 μm or more, more preferably 600 μm or more, more preferably 500 μm or more, more preferably 400 μm or more, more preferably 300 μm or more, more preferably 200 μm or more, more preferably 150 μm or more, more preferably 100 μm or more, more preferably 50 μm or more.

High quality glass elements can be easily provided when particle size is limited.

In one embodiment, preferably, the ratio of the number of particles on the inner surface of the first end section, the intermediate section, the second end section, and/or any combination thereof to the number of particles on the outer surface of each section is 0.5 to 1.5, preferably 0.9 to 1.1.

It has been found that particularly good glass elements are obtained when the roughness of the inner surface and the roughness of the outer surface are the same. This finding is based on the fact that the same roughness surprisingly improves the strength of the glass element.

In one embodiment, preferably the particles are inorganic particles and/or selected from glass, metal, dust, and salt, and more preferably the particles are glass.

Preferably, those skilled in the art will understand that if particles of materials other than those mentioned above are present on the interior and/or exterior surfaces, these particles will not be taken into account in the ratio. For example, if the particles are glass, there may be no or a significant number of salt particles on the interior and/or exterior surfaces, but these will not be relevant to the ratio.

In one embodiment, the length of the hollow portion is preferably 2 cm or more, preferably 10 cm or more, more preferably 20 cm or more, more preferably 30 cm or more, more preferably 40 cm or more, more preferably 50 cm or more, more preferably 110 cm or more, and/or 500 cm or less, preferably 400 cm or less, more preferably 300 cm or less, more preferably 200 cm or less, more preferably 100 cm or less, more preferably 50 cm or less.

By using glass elements of different lengths, it is easy to create a surface of improved quality.

In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the hollow portion is preferably 3 mm or more, preferably 4 mm or more, more preferably 5 mm or more, more preferably 6 mm or more, more preferably 7 mm or more, more preferably 8 mm or more, more preferably 9 mm or more, more preferably 10 mm or more, more preferably 15 mm or more, more preferably 20 mm or more, and/or 20 cm or less, preferably 15 cm or less, more preferably 10 cm or less, more preferably 5 cm or less, more preferably 4 cm or less, more preferably 3 cm or less, more preferably 2 cm or less.

Glass elements of each diameter can be easily manufactured.

In one embodiment, preferably
(i) the hollow section is at least partially designed as a hollow cylindrical section,
(ii) the glass element is a glass tube;
and/or (iii) the glass element comprises, and is preferably formed from, borosilicate glass, soda-lime glass, or aluminosilicate glass.

If the glass elements are made of different glass materials, they can be used in multiple situations.

High-quality glass tubing is particularly important.

In one embodiment, preferably, the first end of the glass element is open, and in particular the lumen of the glass element is fluidly connected to the environment of the glass element via the first end of the glass element, and/or the second end of the glass element is open, and in particular the lumen of the glass element is fluidly connected to the environment of the glass element via the second end of the glass element.

The lumen of the glass element, which has one or more open ends, is easily accessible.

In one embodiment, preferably, the first end of the glass element is a closed end and/or the second end of the glass element is a closed end.

Glass elements with one or more closed ends can reduce or prevent further contamination and are therefore preferred.

In one embodiment, the glass elements are preferably manufactured or manufacturable by the Danner process and/or the Vello process.

This allows for an inexpensive and efficient manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, the glass elements are preferably cut to length from a longer, particularly continuous, strand of glass tube, preferably by scratching and/or breaking.

It is cheap and easy to manufacture glass tubing strands and cut them into small pieces to obtain glass elements of the appropriate length.

In one embodiment, the glass element is preferably cleaned by at least one air stream applied at least partially to its inner and/or outer surface, whereby at least a portion of the particles located on the respective surface are blown away from the surface and/or out of the lumen, and/or the air stream is moved relative to the glass element from the middle section of the glass element to the first end or the second end.

Glass elements are of particularly high quality if they are properly cleaned.

In one embodiment, the glass element is preferably vibrated during the cleaning process, in particular at a frequency of 100 to 10,000 Hz, preferably 200 to 5,000 Hz, more preferably 250 to 4,000 Hz, and/or an amplitude of 0.1 mm to 10 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1 mm, more preferably 0.7 mm to 0.9 mm.

By mechanically vibrating the glass elements, it is possible to produce glass elements that are particularly free of particles that may eventually peel off naturally from the surfaces, such as the inner or outer surfaces, of the glass elements, thereby improving safety.

In one embodiment, the glass elements are preferably cleaned before being reheated and/or after being cut, preferably by scratching and/or breaking, from a longer, particularly continuous, strand of glass tubing.

This ensures that loose particles are removed and prevents them from being heated and permanently adhering to the surface, thus improving the quality of the glass element.

It is proposed that a glass element, such as a glass element of the fourth aspect of the invention or any embodiment described herein, has been cleaned and/or is obtainable by a method according to the third aspect of the invention or any embodiment described herein, a nozzle head according to the first aspect of the invention or any embodiment described herein, and/or a cleaning system according to the second aspect of the invention or any embodiment described herein.

This problem is solved by the invention in its fifth aspect, which proposes a bundle of glass elements comprising a plurality of glass elements according to the fourth aspect of the invention or any embodiment described herein, preferably 2 to 500 glass elements, more preferably 50 to 200 glass elements.

Having a bundle of high-quality glass elements allows us to ensure quality across a large number of different glass elements that would not be possible otherwise.

Here, a bundle may refer to a transaction, loading, or packaging unit for distributing glass elements, preferably empty pharmaceutical cylinders, or pharmaceutical cylinders filled with a gas, e.g., air. For example, bundles are typically, but not necessarily, combined when products of the same type are ordered together at a retail store or bundled together during logistics. According to the present invention, the glass elements in a bundle can be separated by spacers, such as plastic or paper sheets, to prevent direct contact with each other during transportation. Typically, but not necessarily, the bundle is at least partially covered with plastic foil. Preferably, a bundle contains 5 to 5,000 glass elements, preferably 10 to 1,000 glass elements, more preferably 25 to 500 glass elements, more preferably 50 to 300 glass elements, and most preferably 75 to 250 glass elements. An example of a bundle is DENSOPACK® from SCHOTT AG. For economic reasons, preferably, the bundle contains 25 to 500, more preferably 50 to 300, and most preferably 75 to 250 glass elements, which are at least partially covered with plastic foil and in direct contact with each other within the bundle. Preferably, the length of the hollow, preferably hollow cylindrical, portion of the glass elements within the bundle is 2 cm or more, preferably 10 cm or more, more preferably 20 cm or more, more preferably 30 cm or more, more preferably 40 cm or more, more preferably 50 cm or more, more preferably 100 cm or more, and/or 500 cm or less, preferably 400 cm or less, more preferably 300 cm or less, more preferably 200 cm or less, more preferably 100 cm or less, more preferably 50 cm or less.

In one embodiment, preferably, at least a portion of the bundle is wrapped in foil.

The foil prevents further contamination of the glass elements.

In one embodiment, at least some, and preferably all, of the plurality of glass elements are preferably held at a distance from one another within the bundle by at least one, and preferably multiple, spacer elements.

The spacer elements prevent damage to the glass elements, allowing the bundle to be handled safely.

In one embodiment, preferably at least some, and preferably all, of the multiple glass elements are in direct contact with each other.

Direct contact reduces vibration of the glass elements, making the bundle safer to handle.

Various aspects of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment, when read in light of the accompanying schematic drawings.
1 is a cross-sectional view of a nozzle head according to a first aspect of the present invention in a first configuration; FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle head of FIG. 1 in a second configuration. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cleaning system according to a second aspect of the present invention; FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a cleaning system according to a second aspect of the present invention in an assembled state; FIG. 4b is a perspective view of the cleaning system of FIG. 4a in an exploded state. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a cleaning system according to the second aspect of the present invention; FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a cleaning system according to the second aspect of the present invention; 4 is an illustration showing a demonstration of cleaning the interior of a glass element with a fluid using a cleaning system according to a second aspect of the present invention; FIG. FIG. 8 shows an alternative to the illustration of FIG. 7.

Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a nozzle head 1 according to a first aspect of the present invention in a first configuration.

Nozzle head 1 is suitable for cleaning the interior of a glass element with fluid 3, which is indicated by an arrow.

The nozzle head 1 has a plurality of cleaning openings 5 (two of which are shown in FIG. 1) for discharging at least a portion of the fluid. Each of the cleaning openings 5 faces a first direction R1. Since each of the cleaning openings 5 faces a respective first direction, there are as many first directions as there are cleaning openings.

The nozzle head 1 has one pressure balancing opening 7 for discharging at least a portion of the fluid 3 and facing the second direction R2. The pressure balancing opening 7 is arranged concentrically with the central axis A of the nozzle head 1.

The two half spaces, the first half space H1 and the second half space H2, are separated by a plane P perpendicular to the central axis A.

Each of the first direction vectors of the first direction R1 points away from the second half space H2. Furthermore, each of the second direction vectors of the second direction R2 points away from the first half space H1.

The nozzle head further includes a supply opening 9 for supplying the fluid 3 to the nozzle head 1, and the supply opening 9 is arranged concentrically with respect to the central axis A of the nozzle head 1. The supply opening 9 faces a third direction R3. A third direction vector of the third direction R3 faces away from the second half space H2, and the third direction vector is antiparallel to the second direction R2.

More precisely, the nozzle head 1 has one single supply opening 9 and one single pressure balancing opening 7, with the sole supply opening 9 being located opposite the sole pressure balancing opening 7 along the central axis A.

The nozzle head 1 also has a supply channel 11 for supplying the fluid 3 from the supply opening 9 to the pressure balancing opening 7 and the cleaning opening 5. All of the pressure balancing openings and cleaning openings are fluidically connected to one another via the supply channel 11.

The nozzle head 1 further includes an adjusting element 13 for adjusting a third ratio of the fluid amounts supplied to all cleaning openings 5 and pressure balancing openings 7.

The adjustment element 13 comprises a metering ring. The adjustment element 13 is at least partially arranged within the nozzle head 1. The adjustment element 13 is movable within the nozzle head 1 along an adjustment direction parallel to the central axis A. Thus, by moving the adjustment element 13 along the adjustment direction, the third ratio is adjusted or adjustable.

The nozzle head 1 further comprises a fixing element 15 for fixing the adjustment element 13 in a particular position, in particular for preventing movement along the adjustment direction. The fixing element 15 may be a lock nut.

The nozzle head 1 has a first threaded portion 17, which is at least partially defined by the supply opening 9. The adjustment element 13 has a second threaded portion 19 which cooperates with the first threaded portion 17 of the supply opening 9. This cooperation allows the adjustment element 13 to be moved along the adjustment direction. Of course, the fixing element 15 must be released during the movement.

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle head 1 in the second configuration.

In the second configuration, the third ratio is adjusted by moving the adjustment element 13 along the adjustment direction, i.e., to the left in Figures 1 and 2. As shown by the presence of only one arrow for each cleaning opening 5 in Figure 2 (two in Figure 1), less fluid 3 is supplied to the supply opening 9 and released from the cleaning opening in the second configuration compared to the first configuration. Adjustment of the third ratio is essentially achieved by the adjustment element 13 reducing the cross-section of each of the cleaning openings.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a cleaning system 100 according to a second aspect of the present invention.

The cleaning system 100 includes a nozzle head 101. The nozzle head 101 may be the nozzle head 1 described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Therefore, for the same structural features of the nozzle head 101, the same reference numbers as those of the nozzle head 1 are used, but increased by 100. Furthermore, for all aspects related to the nozzle head 101, reference may be made to the description provided above with reference to the nozzle head 1 in conjunction with Figures 1 and 2.

The cleaning system 100 also includes a fluid supply line 121 connected to the supply opening 109 of the nozzle head 101. In fact, the adjustment element 113 is designed integrally with the fluid supply line 121.

Figures 4a and 4b are perspective views of a second embodiment of a cleaning system 200 according to a second aspect of the present invention, shown in assembled and disassembled states, respectively.

In fact, the cleaning system 200 is similar to the cleaning system 100 described above with respect to FIG. 3. Therefore, the same reference numbers are used for the same structural features, but increased by 100.

In FIG. 4a, the cleaning system 200 is shown in an assembled state. In FIG. 4b, the cleaning system 200 is shown in a disassembled state. As is clear from FIG. 4b, the adjustment element 213 and the fixing element 215 can be separated from the rest of the nozzle head 201. The adjustment element is designed integrally with the fluid supply line 221.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a cleaning system 300 according to the second aspect of the present invention.

In fact, the cleaning system 300 is similar to the cleaning systems 100 and 200 described above with respect to Figures 3 and 4a, 4b, respectively. Therefore, for the same structural features, the same reference numbers are used, but incremented by 200 or 100. Furthermore, only the differences between the cleaning system 300 and the cleaning systems 100, 200 need be described here; for the remainder, reference can be made to the description provided above with respect to the cleaning systems 100 and 200 in the combination of Figures 3, 4a, 4b.

In the cleaning system 300, the nozzle head 301 is designed integrally with the fluid supply line 321. Therefore, the nozzle head 301 does not require or have a fixing element. Furthermore, the nozzle head 301 does not have an adjustment element. As a result, the first thread portion and the second thread portion are not required. Therefore, the nozzle head 301, and thus the cleaning system 300, are particularly robust and inexpensive.

Nozzle heads, such as nozzle head 301 of cleaning system 300, can be manufactured using 3D printing technology. This makes it possible to realize nozzle head designs that are difficult to manufacture using conventional methods.

Figure 6 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a cleaning system 400 according to the second aspect of the present invention.

In fact, the cleaning system 400 is similar to the cleaning systems 100 and 200 described above with respect to Figures 3 and 4a, 4b, respectively. Therefore, the same reference numbers are used for the same structural features, but increased by 300 or 200. Furthermore, only the differences between the cleaning system 400 and the cleaning systems 100 and 200 need be described here; for the remainder, reference can be made to the description provided above with respect to the cleaning systems 100 and 200 in the combination of Figures 3, 4a, 4b.

In the cleaning system 400, the nozzle head 401 does not have a locking element. This is possible, for example, in situations where there is sufficient friction between the two threaded portions (only the second threaded portion 419 is visible in FIG. 6) to prevent the adjustment element from unintentionally moving within the nozzle head.

Figure 7 is an illustrative diagram with multiple successive time steps T1-T5 showing a demonstration of cleaning the interior of a glass element 501 with a fluid 503 using a cleaning system 500 according to a second aspect of the present invention.

For illustrative purposes, the cleaning system 500 is shown only with its nozzle head 505 and supply line 507. The glass element 501 may be a glass tube.

The cleaning system 500 is configured to remove particles from the glass element in that the nozzle head 505 is moved along a fourth direction R4 inside the glass element 501 while not ejecting fluid (see time steps T1 and T2), and moved in a fifth direction R5 outside the glass element 501 while ejecting fluid (see time steps T3, T4, and T5). The fourth direction R4 is parallel to the second direction of the nozzle head. The fifth direction R5 is parallel to the third direction of the nozzle head.

Of course, any cleaning system according to the second aspect of the present invention, such as any of the cleaning systems 200, 300, and 400 described above, may be configured as appropriate.

Figure 8 is an alternative to the illustration of Figure 7. Here, the glass element 501 is cleaned simultaneously from both ends using two cleaning systems 500a, 500b. Only the last three time steps are shown. Of course, to clean the glass element 501 precisely in the center as well, one of the two systems 500a, 500b can be advanced so that the nozzle heads 505a, 505b do not collide in the center of the glass element 501.

Features disclosed in the specification, drawings, and claims may be essential, either alone or in any combination, to realize different embodiments of the present invention. A preferred embodiment of one aspect, e.g., a nozzle head, may also be a preferred embodiment of another aspect, e.g., a method, unless otherwise specified.

1,101,201,301,401 Nozzle head 3,103 Fluid 5,105,205,305,405 Opening 7,107,207,307,407 Opening 9,109,209 Opening 11,111,211 Supply channel 13,113,213 Adjustment element 15,115,215 Fixation element 17,117,217 Threaded portion 19,119,219,419 Threaded portion 121,221,321,421 Fluid supply line 100,200,300,400,500 Cleaning system 501 Glass element 503,503a,503b Fluid 505,505a,505b Nozzle head 507, 507a, 507b Fluid supply line A Axis H1, H2 Half space P Plane R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 Direction T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 Time step

Claims (8)

1. A nozzle head for cleaning the interior of a glass element with a fluid, said nozzle head comprising:
at least one flushing opening for discharging at least a portion of the fluid and facing in a first direction;
at least one pressure balancing opening for discharging at least a portion of the fluid and facing in a second direction;
an adjustment element movable within the nozzle head along an adjustment direction parallel to a central axis of the nozzle head to adjust the ratio between an amount of fluid discharged from the at least one cleaning opening and an amount of fluid discharged from the at least one pressure balancing opening;
Equipped with
two half spaces, i.e., a first half space and a second half space, separated by a plane perpendicular to the central axis,
a first direction vector of the first direction points towards the first half-space and/or away from the second half-space;
a second direction vector of the second direction points towards the second half-space and/or away from the first half-space;
Nozzle head. when the fluid is supplied to the nozzle head through the supply opening at an absolute pressure of 1 to 10 bar, the nozzle head is configured such that a first ratio (mass/mass) of an amount of the fluid discharged by the pressure balancing opening to an amount of the fluid discharged by the cleaning opening is 0.2 or more and/or 20 or less ;
and/or the second direction vector is parallel to the central axis and the first direction vector is neither parallel nor anti-parallel to the central axis, and/or the angle between the line defined by the first direction vector and a plane perpendicular to the central axis is between 10° and 89 ° .
The nozzle head according to claim 1. a second ratio (mm ² /mm ² ) of a cross-sectional area of the pressure balance opening to a cross-sectional area of the cleaning opening is 0.2 or more ;
and/or the second ratio is 20 or less .
The nozzle head according to claim 1 or 2. the cleaning opening and/or the pressure balancing opening are configured such that a line defined by the first direction vector and/or the second direction vector does not intersect with a line defined by a third direction vector;
and/or the cleaning openings and/or the pressure balancing openings are configured such that the fluid is discharged from each opening in a spiral.
The nozzle head according to any one of claims 1 to 3. 1. A cleaning system for cleaning the interior of a glass element with a fluid, said cleaning system comprising:
A nozzle head according to any one of claims 1 to 4;
a fluid supply line connected to a supply opening of the nozzle head;
A cleaning system comprising: (i) the cleaning system further comprises at least one fixation unit for holding the glass element in a fixed position during cleaning;
(ii) the cleaning system further comprises at least one fluid supply means for supplying fluid to the nozzle head via the fluid supply line, the fluid supply means supplying fluid ;
and/or (iii) the amount of water in the fluid supplied to the nozzle head is 10% by mass or less ;
The cleaning system of claim 5. the at least one stationary unit is a conveyor belt or a roll;
the at least one fluid supply means is a tank, a recirculation facility or a fluid filter system;
The fluid is helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar), nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, air, liquid, water vapor, or a mixture thereof;
The cleaning system of claim 6. 8. A method for cleaning glass elements by means of a nozzle head according to any one of claims 1 to 4 or a cleaning system according to any one of claims 5 to 7 , said method comprising the steps of:
- providing a glass element;
- inserting said nozzle head into the glass element along a specific direction parallel to the second and/or third direction, while said nozzle head is not emitting any fluid;
- ejecting a fluid from the nozzle head while moving the nozzle head in the glass element along a direction opposite to the specific direction;
A method comprising: